Top Picnic Areas In The Smokies

A picnic in the Great Smoky Mountains is one of life’s greatest pleasures. You’ll experience nature, tranquility and delicious food in new ways. Here are 5 picnic areas in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park to help you plan your next day out.

Chimneys

There’s no question why many folks consider picnicking at the Chimneys one of the best things to do in the Smoky Mountains. Here you’ll experience breathtaking views while listening to the gentle roar of a nearby creek. Located near Cove Hardwood Nature Trail, the Chimneys Picnic Area is open until 8 p.m. during the summer months (May-August) and at dusk the rest of the year. Pack your picnic ready or cook on one of the grills provided here. Restroom facilities are available.

Metcalf Bottoms

Nestled along the Little River, Metcalf Bottoms is another of the best picnic areas in the Smoky Mountains. Most of Metcalf Bottoms picnic area is open year round, so it’s perfect for taking advantage during the cooler months. Rent the pavilion here in advance from the National Park Service or take advantage of the provided tables. Metcalf Bottoms is located in the Wears Valley area off of Lyon Springs Road.

Greenbrier

Located in one of the most scenic parts of the Great Smoky Mountains, the Greenbrier picnic area is one of the park’s greatest treasures. Here you’ll find a pavilion that seats 70 and can be reserved in advance for your next gathering. Situated along the Little Pigeon River, you’ll find beautiful views of wildflowers here all spring and summer. The Greenbrier picnic area is open year-round and is near the Porters Creek Trail and Ramsey Cascades Trail.

Cades Cove

Cades Cove is one of our favorite areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Here you’ll find breathtaking mountain views year-round. This picturesque valley features a picnic area right off the main loop where you can enjoy a picnic any time of the year. Cades Cove also offers some of the best opportunities for wildlife viewing in the park. You might spot deer, groundhogs, turkeys, skunks or even a bear during your picnic in Cades Cove.

Big Creek

The Big Creek Picnic Area is located just over the state line in North Carolina, but it’s well worth the drive. This cozy picnic area only features 10 sites, but it promises beautiful views and breathtaking scenery. Open April-October, the picnic area closes at dusk. Amenities include charcoal grills and restrooms with flush toilets and cold running water.

When you’re picnicking in the Great Smoky Mountains, it’s important to remember to respect the nature around you. Clean up after your picnic by disposing of all trash and cool charcoal ashes in the receptacles provided. Do not interact with or feed any wildlife you see during your picnic, especially bears. Feeding bears can cause them to become day active and teach them to leave the safety of the back country.

All Picnic Areas In The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Picnic Area

Location

Open/Close Dates

Number of Sites

Pavillion

Big Creek

Gatlinburg, TN

March 30 - Oct 28

10

None

Cades Cove

Townsend, TN

Year Round

81

None

Chimneys

Gatlinburg, TN

March 11 - Nov 28

68

None

Collins Creek

Bryson City, NC

March 30 - Oct 28

182

Seats 70

Cosby

Cosby, TN

March 23 - Oct 28

35

Seats 55

Deep Creek

Bryson City, NC

Year Round

58

Seats 70

Greenbrier

Gatlinburg, TN

Year Round

12

Seats 70

Heintooga

Cherokee, NC

May 26 - Oct 10

41

None

Metcalf Bottoms

Gatlinburg, TN

Year Round

122

Seats 70

Twin Creeks

Gatlinburg, TN

March 30 - Oct 28

Pavilion Only

Seats 150

Call (877) 444-6777 to reserve pavilions. More information at NPS.gov.

Ready to pack up for your Smoky Mountain picnic? Learn more about things to do in the Smokies and make the most of your time in the mountains!